Another Drawdown Of Lake Bistineau Set To Begin This Month

It won't be long now, Lake Bistineau will be reduced to Bayou Dorcheat and an assortment of swamp-like areas.

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It would appear that summer is nearly over for those who enjoy water sports like fishing or skiing on Lake Bistineau in Northwest Louisiana.

Lake Bistineau State Park recently posted on social media that they had been notified that the annual drawdown of Lake Bistineau has been scheduled to begin July 29, 2024 and after that date, the park's boat launch would close and they would cease boat rentals.

Lots of those who enjoy immediate access to the water as lakeside property owners, will soon have to strain their eyes just to see the water.

Of course, to some, the sight of bare ground is a lot better than the unsightly view of areas completely choked with giant salvinia and consider the "annual" drawdowns somewhat of a necessary evil.

Why Does the LDWF Keep Drawing Lake Bistineau Down Each Year?

In a press release, LDWF maintains that the annual drawdowns are a necessary component of LDWF’s integrated management plan to control overabundant aquatic vegetation growth and to improve the Lake Bistineau sport fishery.

An annual cycle of high and low water fluctuation can provide beneficial effects similar to a natural overflow lake system. The Lake Bistineau Waterbody Management Plan can be viewed HERE at wlf.louisiana.gov.

How Long Will It Take For The Lake To Be Completely Lowered?

According to the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, once the water control structure is open, the lake should dewater at a rate of 4 to 6 inches per day until it reaches a potential maximum drawdown level of 8 feet below pool stage.

This dewater rate could be impacted, however, by local rainfall in the surrounding watershed. The drawdown gates are scheduled to be closed on November 15, 2024 to allow the lake to refill in time for part of waterfowl season and early spring recreational activities.